One of Chicago’s most beloved, and campy, holiday traditions happens this week right here in the Lakeview neighborhood. And if you love to sing you’ll love this tradition. The beautifully restored Music Box Theater, dating back to 1929, and located at 3733 N. Southport Avenue, is home to the “28th Annual Christmas Show.” The week long Christmas Show includes double features of two Christmas celluloid classics: Its’ a Wonderful Life and White Christmas. About half an hour before the film roles, audiences are treated to a Christmas cartoon. After the cartoon, four members of the Chicago Chamber Choir serenade theater goers. Then Santa arrives to direct the organist and audience in some good old fashioned Christmas caroling. Words to all the songs are projected on to the movie screen, insuring maximum participation. Once the movies begin, the audience is still encouraged to participate. For example, many people bring bells to ring during it’s a Wonderful Life and chant “hot dog!” along with George Bailey when he makes that famous exclamation . During the screenings of it’s a White Christmas the audience is welcome to sing along with Bing, Danny, and the girls. It’s over the top fun for the holidays!

This event is popular and some show times do sell out so you’ll want to call ahead. Tickets can be purchased for just one movie or both as a double feature and are available for purchase at the box office,over the phone at 773-871-6607, or online at www.musicboxtheatre.com. Seating is assigned for these shows. Tickets prices start at $12 for adults for a single show or $17 for the double feature.

Another opportunity to enjoy some caroling in Lakeview presents itself this Wednesday evening at Lake View Presbyterian Church. As part of their advent celebration members of Lake View Presbyterian will be singing Christmas carols on the front porch of the church starting at 6pm. It’s a little under a mile to walk there, including a slight detour down Clark to see the Cubs Christmas tree. (Just ask you innkeeper David for a map.) The Cub’s towering evergreen stands by the main entrance at Clark and Addison, and with the marquis just behind, it’s a great spot to get a photo. If you need a warm-up on your way, duck into Starbucks at 1023 W. Addison for an Eggnog or Gingerbread Latte.

And of course any evening in the holiday season guests of the Old Chicago Inn can enjoy “Merry-oke” (that’s Karaoke holiday style) at our sister business Trader Todd’s. Recently featured on WGN’s morning show, Trader Todd’s is Chicago’s favorite karaoke destination. And with lots of seasonal song selections, the holidays are no exception. Stop in and enjoy your complimentary meal with your stay and you take your turn on the stage with some “Jingle Bell Rock.”

We look forward to having you with us this holiday season. If we can assist you in last minute gift shopping, dining options for Christmas Eve or Christmas day, or holiday worship services please let us know. We wish you happy travels and a Merry Christmas from all of us at the Old Chicago Inn.

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A Note From Virginia

Welcome, my name is Virginia, a proprietor here at the Old Chicago Inn. One of the things I love most about hosting our guests is sharing our neighborhood with them. Lakeview is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood full of unique shops, eateries, theaters and history.
Whether you are a guest of ours, planning a trip to Chicago’s north side, a friend or neighbor I hope you’ll find some interesting recommendations and information here. I’m a big fan of Lakeview and hope you’ll be one too!